preschool fees — The state will cover preschool fees and meals for 21,000 children up to the age of four for the 2025–2026 school year, as announced by the finance ministry on Monday.
Preschool fees: Financial Details of the Programme
The ambitious initiative is backed by a substantial budget of €73 million, with €43.8 million sourced from the European Union. This funding is part of the broader Thalia 2021–2027 social cohesion programme, which aims to boost equality in early education and reduce child poverty.
Eligibility Criteria for Families
To qualify for this support, families must have been approved for a child allowance and must have a dependent child aged four or younger as of August 31. Additionally, the child must either be enrolled or have secured a position in an infant or nursery school that is participating in the programme.
Details of the Financial Assistance
The financial aid is allocated on a per-child basis and paid directly to the educational providers, ensuring that the funds are specifically used for fees and meals. The subsidy amount varies depending on the household income, size of the family, and the child’s age.
- For infants under two years old, the allowance can reach up to €350 per month.
- For children over two years old, support can amount to €250 per month.
- An additional €50 is available for those in extended or afternoon care programmes.
Application Process for Families
The application portal opened on September 1, allowing parents to apply online through Gov.cy once their child is enrolled in an eligible school. A list of participating infant and nursery schools can be found on the deputy welfare ministry’s website.
Payments begin in the month the application is submitted and continue until the end of the school year in which the child turns four, ensuring families receive uninterrupted support.
Government Support for Families
Fanos Kouroufexis, the ministry official overseeing the programme, emphasised the significance of these subsidies, stating they serve as “a decisive instrument in supporting families with young children, promoting equality in education, and bringing Cyprus closer to a modern European model of social protection.”
Historical Context and Future Outlook
This programme is not entirely new; it has been running since 2022 and has already disbursed €47.5 million to assist families. The government’s ongoing commitment to subsidising preschool education reflects a growing recognition of the importance of early childhood care and education in shaping a child’s future.
As the initiative progresses, it aims to further enhance educational opportunities for young children and contribute to the development of a more inclusive society. By alleviating financial burdens, the state hopes to encourage greater participation in early education programmes, ultimately benefiting both families and the wider community.
